Your Home Buying Journey

Everything you need to know before you buy in Virginia.

Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you will ever make. In Virginia, buyers typically pay between 2% and 5% of the purchase price in closing costs, and homes in the Richmond metro average about 25 days on market. Whether you are a first-time buyer or relocating with the military, this guide breaks the process down into clear, manageable steps so you always know what comes next.

Mortgage Calculator

How much will my monthly mortgage payment be?

Use the calculator below to get a quick estimate of your monthly mortgage payment based on home price, down payment, interest rate, and loan term.

Home Price

Down Payment

$ %

Interest Rate

Loan Term

Estimated Monthly Payment

$1,771

principal & interest only

Loan Amount

$280,000

Total Interest

$337,560

Total Cost

$617,560

This calculator provides an estimate for principal and interest only. Actual payments may include property taxes, homeowners insurance, HOA fees, and mortgage insurance (PMI). Consult a licensed lender for exact figures.

Step by Step

What are the steps to buying a home in Virginia?

Get Pre-Approved

Before you start browsing listings, talk to a lender about what you can comfortably afford. Pre-approval gives you a clear budget and shows sellers you are a serious buyer — critical in a market where homes average just 25 days on the Richmond metro MLS. I can connect you with trusted local lenders who understand VA loans and military relocation timelines.

Define Your Needs

Think about what matters most: commute time to base, school districts, neighborhood feel, yard size, number of bedrooms. I will help you narrow down the areas and communities that fit your family's lifestyle and priorities.

Tour Homes & Neighborhoods

Once we have your criteria locked in, I will set up tours of homes that match. I will also share insights about each neighborhood — schools, commute routes, nearby amenities, and the overall community feel that you cannot get from a listing photo.

Make an Offer

When you find the right home, I will guide you through crafting a competitive offer based on current market data. I handle negotiations, counteroffers, and paperwork so you can focus on the excitement of moving forward.

Inspections & Appraisal

After your offer is accepted, you will schedule a home inspection and the lender will order an appraisal. I will help you understand the inspection report, negotiate repairs if needed, and make sure the home appraises at or above the purchase price.

Closing Day

At closing, you will review and sign the final documents, wire your funds, and receive the keys to your new home. I will be there with you every step of the way to make sure everything goes smoothly.

How does the VA home loan work for first-time buyers?

As a military family, you may be eligible for VA loan benefits that make homeownership more accessible. VA loans accounted for roughly 10% of all new purchase mortgages nationwide, and the 2026 baseline VA loan limit for one-unit properties is $832,750 — though higher limits apply in high-cost counties. The VA funding fee ranges from 1.25% to 3.3% of the loan amount depending on down payment and use, but it can be waived for veterans with service-connected disabilities. I will help you navigate the entire process from start to finish.

No down payment required for eligible borrowers — $0 down up to the conforming limit
Competitive interest rates often lower than conventional loans
No private mortgage insurance (PMI), saving you $150–$300+ per month
Closing costs capped at 1% of the loan in many cases
Reusable benefit — you can use your VA loan multiple times, even hold more than one at a time
2026 VA loan limit of $832,750 for one-unit properties in Virginia

Do I need a buyer's agent agreement before touring homes?

Yes — as of recent industry changes, a written buyer-agent agreement is required before touring any property. This ensures full transparency about fees and services upfront, so there are no surprises. I will walk you through everything and make sure you are comfortable before you sign. Then I am here to guide you through every step of the process.

Get in Touch 804-803-1080